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Namco Bandai Hones Their Blades as Soulcalibur IV Goes Gold

Leading video game developer and publisher, Namco Bandai Games America Inc., announced today that Soulcalibur IV, the newest installment in the highly acclaimed weapons-based fighting game franchise, has gone gold for the Xbox 360 video game and entertainment system from Microsoft and PlayStation 3 computer entertainment system. Developed by Project Soul, the legendary team behind Soul Blade and Soulcalibur I-III, Soulcalibur IV will redefine the fighting genre when it is available nationwide on July 29.

Take control of an expanded roster of warriors from around the galaxy in their unrelenting search for the Soul Edge and Soul Calibur swords. Soulcalibur IV will also play host to a bevy of special characters including legendary STAR WARS icons Master Yoda for the Xbox 360, Darth Vader for the PlayStation 3 system, and appearing on both platforms, Darth Vader's Secret Apprentice from LucasArt's hotly anticipated STAR WARS: The Force Unleashed. Adding to the mythos, Soulcalibur IV will also include a number of special characters designed by famous Japanese manga artists and character designers.

Retooled from the ground up, Soulcalibur IV perfects its highly celebrated weapons-based fighting system with stunning high definition graphics and new gameplay mechanics. Adding to the depth of combat, players can now destroy protective armor; weakening their enemy's resolve and unleash Critical Finish moves to defeat opponents in one final blow. Also new to the series is the ability to compete online against players from around the world with their favorite Soulcalibur characters or customized characters for global domination.

To support the release of Soulcalibur IV, an extensive national marketing campaign is underway that will generate more than 250 million consumer impressions. Television ad campaigns will run throughout July and August, consisting of :30 and :15 second spots aimed at cable programming in the U.S. and Canada. Additional initiatives include online and print programs, as well as promotional and retail partnerships that will raise the anticipation for this premiere franchise.

Also to further whet appetites, players can now download the original Soulcalibur for Xbox Live Arcade for Xbox 360. Originally released in 1999, Soulcalibur remains the highest rated fighting game of all time and continues to garner critical acclaim with its graceful transition into the high definition era. Gamers can prove their worth against the world with dozens of leaderboards spanning every character and mode. Players can sharpen fighting instincts in Arcade, Survival and Training modes or challenge a friend in local-play Versus mode.

Soulcalibur IV will carry a suggested MSRP of $59.99 and a limited Premium Edition with exclusive content will be available for $79.99. Soulcalibur for Xbox Live Arcade for Xbox 360 is now available worldwide for 800 Microsoft Points. Soulcalibur IV and Soulcalibur are rated "T" for Teen by the ESRB. For more information please visit: http://www.namcobandaigames.com or www.soulcalibur.com.

For Soulcalibur IV online community activities and the latest updates please visit: www.whatswithinyoursoul.com.

About NAMCO BANDAI Games America Inc.

NAMCO BANDAI Games America Inc. is a leading interactive entertainment software publisher and developer based in Santa Clara, CA. The company is a part of the NAMCO BANDAI group of companies known for creating and publishing many of the industry's top video game franchises including the PAC-MAN, SOULCALIBUR, Naruto and Tekken brands. For more information about NAMCO BANDAI Games America Inc., and our products log onto http://www.namcobandaigames.com/.